tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54165565834236355582024-03-18T10:00:11.250-05:00The Final Chaptersluluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.comBlogger2512125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-17732573679679855612024-03-18T06:00:00.003-05:002024-03-18T06:00:00.140-05:00WHY WE LIGHT A CANDLE<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Almost all of us like the warm ambiance of a lit candle. In the past, I have lit candles for the scent buried in their wax. The heat of the fire begins to melt the wax releasing the wonderful smell into the air as it slowly melts. Today, because of rules of safety concerning the potential fire risk, I do not use candles very often. I miss that warmth--that glow--that light in the darkness. The diffusers and plug ins while certainly giving off a nice aroma--are just not the same.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Some churches have rows of candles placed by an alter or alter table. Worshippers stop and light a candle and say a prayer --sometimes for a specific person or concern. The intent is a symbol of the prayer being offered to God. As our prayers drift toward God, so the smoke from the candle also wafts in a stream of worship and acknowledgement of a Holy God. A God who hears our prayers.</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bzf3XBvtyNCmzGncYlCv3HLJyieS6fVyIA0C-zMGAsAYmpO2cVXdnHUR2n_aOCR0Ba7ljKmARrwlm4XDhQsIic88GWuZYIYk3c2N8XhhqH0tpz4MixvMuMyqQJQch-YGVgiYWNCSPGEgkLPcvT-abqYddy6kUMaBPyzSa4jxL3fau2G8il4JmtHz1MX7/s640/fbf79c6c577fbd825dcb78b18b496439.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="640" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bzf3XBvtyNCmzGncYlCv3HLJyieS6fVyIA0C-zMGAsAYmpO2cVXdnHUR2n_aOCR0Ba7ljKmARrwlm4XDhQsIic88GWuZYIYk3c2N8XhhqH0tpz4MixvMuMyqQJQch-YGVgiYWNCSPGEgkLPcvT-abqYddy6kUMaBPyzSa4jxL3fau2G8il4JmtHz1MX7/w400-h274/fbf79c6c577fbd825dcb78b18b496439.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The lit candle is also a reminder of the light Jesus brought into the world. A light of hope in the presence of the darkness of the fallen world. A gift of the beauty of the light in the midst of the dark. When you enter a darkened church and see the row upon row of candles burning---you are reminded of all the prayers lifted by so many believers. Soon the light from those burning candles fills the darkness and we can see. We can see the way--we can see the path--and we are reminded of a God who is larger--more powerful--than our wildest imagination. He lights the world--with hope, with love, and his reconciling redemption for man. We visually see a display of acknowledgement of our need for Him.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Candles are reminders of who God is and the light of hope He gives us. May we always burn brightly with the light He has given us through Jesus.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA23vczJl3lC9Mnm5AsSx4R24V9lWq6-Mxf8r_fI6-nUYHDRzszjbrvuTO8q-dnCOEhnlQRPcIAZwGMbG4agTCLWbuKTLPcX5do-2QgcQe0Y6ZEpzns2fJnuhcMtwwbUUtSxJTdgiZ_skc4WMgk5EwpUH8tnpFWgtHIGBmSqYpN6zywJn6fNld-M_u7ZM/s1200/anitabryant1-2x.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA23vczJl3lC9Mnm5AsSx4R24V9lWq6-Mxf8r_fI6-nUYHDRzszjbrvuTO8q-dnCOEhnlQRPcIAZwGMbG4agTCLWbuKTLPcX5do-2QgcQe0Y6ZEpzns2fJnuhcMtwwbUUtSxJTdgiZ_skc4WMgk5EwpUH8tnpFWgtHIGBmSqYpN6zywJn6fNld-M_u7ZM/w400-h210/anitabryant1-2x.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"This is the message we have heard from Him</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and proclaim to you,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">that God is light,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and in Him is no darkness at all."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">I John 1:5</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-9609451542990817932024-03-15T06:00:00.003-05:002024-03-15T06:00:00.255-05:00WHEN YOU LOSE YOUR STRING<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">At this point in life, it is my personal aim to be comfortable in my clothes. I wore jeans as casual attire for much of my life, but with the introduction to elastic waist bands I am a changed woman. Jeans could never compare in the comfort department to these lovelies~</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4ZNynPYHd8tNW3zh5VOm9dCRz2o1iznN5nAtLpOI0FJp7bwlquGc2L6vgyUP1htKSQhiFikmW7j4sruGYhsnz8d1MknUlV0t6hKDWVFEUtJ1PN-SBmyvq4S8y-XzM-Fc2KEg2jEbemA_H2F0-TCdrHjWJOqOb3fE7CIRmvylsZhaftRnG13mmk1CNMFY/s707/2_2_707x707.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="707" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4ZNynPYHd8tNW3zh5VOm9dCRz2o1iznN5nAtLpOI0FJp7bwlquGc2L6vgyUP1htKSQhiFikmW7j4sruGYhsnz8d1MknUlV0t6hKDWVFEUtJ1PN-SBmyvq4S8y-XzM-Fc2KEg2jEbemA_H2F0-TCdrHjWJOqOb3fE7CIRmvylsZhaftRnG13mmk1CNMFY/s320/2_2_707x707.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">AND I prefer soft dri-fit material and a string in the waist band. This helps with keeping my pants up even when my weight fluctuates. I call them expand-o-matics. Most days this is my dress of choice.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">There is a down side----when I forget to tie the string before throwing them in the wash disaster ensues. Yesterday as I pulled them out for a quick spin in the dryer at low heat before hanging to dry---low and behold the string had come out of one side. <b>GROAN!</b> NOW--this is fixable--but it takes a great deal of patience to accomplish the task. I spent at least 30 minutes salvaging one of my favorite pair of pants...<b>WORTH IT! </b>I could have just thrown them out and bought a new pair, but they were salvageable with a little patience. They had served me well--and nothing was wrong with them--except the lop sided string. So I restrung the string. (That should be a country song lyric.)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">So many things in life can be fixed with a little patience and there is always that feeling of accomplishment when you efforts pay off. Waste not--want not.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Today I am so thankful for a loving God who considers me salvageable---when it must look like I am beyond repair. He lovingly and patiently steers me back on the true course--He repairs my breaks and helps me move forward. He is even willing to restring my string if needed. Our God of infinite patience never discards us--He lovingly restores us. We are blessed!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">"But do not overlook this one fact, beloved,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">that with the Lord</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">one day is as a thousand years,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">and a thousand years as one day.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">but is patient toward you"</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">II Peter 3:8-9</span></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-31228409872399607752024-03-14T06:00:00.014-05:002024-03-14T10:11:36.474-05:00WHEN MUSEUMS BECOME PERSONAL<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The vast majority of us have been to some sort of museum. I have been to local museums with displays involving the past of the area and huge national museums~ most memorably the Metropolitan Museum in New York City, the National Holocaust Museum in Washington DC and the granddaddy of them all the Smithsonian In Washington. I have found each and every one fascinating as I visit the past through curated displays of "The Way We Were". </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFoLWhlU6gcPKfpwEqHF6jGqeqMUx2VCPkjSFCc3ZIwaQr1V2oHQ1t7DR85ZPrQZdnbAh62d2ktfO4rJRAUGh-vex3toPjMUnMdSEc0at572oROJg4bif4Ji83F0ATAVCjqUzLyAM2ZxbeBzJ7xd62CmtQNJmqICTfZZvGjzBUOc4wymZ1gt1azWhpSiN/s960/Met-Museum-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="960" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFoLWhlU6gcPKfpwEqHF6jGqeqMUx2VCPkjSFCc3ZIwaQr1V2oHQ1t7DR85ZPrQZdnbAh62d2ktfO4rJRAUGh-vex3toPjMUnMdSEc0at572oROJg4bif4Ji83F0ATAVCjqUzLyAM2ZxbeBzJ7xd62CmtQNJmqICTfZZvGjzBUOc4wymZ1gt1azWhpSiN/w400-h268/Met-Museum-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I cannot remember what started this train of thought, but I do remember the point, thankfully. (My memory is hit or miss---and a lot more missing these days) The point is the museums I enjoyed most and could have spent days in were those with which I have personal knowledge or involvement. The Smithsonian had Dorothy's red slippers, Archie Bunker's chair, the first satellite; local museums involving families and places I have been around my entire life. The museum which really spoke to me was the World War II museum in New Orleans. You might wonder why? Since I am a Baby Boomer, I was born in the years following the war. My dad was in the army in the European theater during that war. I am most interested in the battles he was a part of; what his life was like while deployed; what life was like at home with all the men gone; and how it affected him and my mother--forever. It is my attempt to understand the experiences of my parents and how it shaped their lives--and consequently mine. Our history plays a huge roll in who we are. In any quest to better understand ourselves we need to investigate our history. The story we are living was directly impacted not only by our experiences, but those who played a part in helping us become who we are today.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Where could I possibly be going? We have a history with God~ the story of our relationship with Him. The Word is filled with examples of these stories which makes us aware of how important our stories are. If we were to create a display based upon our history with God--what would it look like? Thinking through this gives you a good start on "your testimony". Someone will be interested (probably our children) , but also those God places in our path. Stories are told best with a little preparation and practice. SO--sit down and at least think through what your story exhibit would look like. Are you prepared to relate to others the story of you and God? It is the most important story you will ever tell.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"My mouth will tell of your righteous acts,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">of your deeds of salvation all the day,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">for their number is past my knowledge.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">With the mighty deeds of the Lord God I will come;</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Psalm 71: 15-16</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-55788183446017994812024-03-13T06:00:00.007-05:002024-03-13T06:00:00.247-05:00OVERWHELMING EVIDENCE<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">If you love a good "who done it", you know the methods to determine who done it. You must follow the string of evidence. What is evidence? Dr, Google says it is the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid. So we study the scene surrounding the crime in order to come up with our suspect.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUol8cssShU2fM71Uw4L37AcuRD4UjrkUFHchf01ux4kPycwQWD_O8Ug9GrM9m47xoT69kNQKyDT3ElNNZOMDb9tgSEwSZvEreRRVgrGfh7IwmF5F9av6jg3mlNdRSIwLR9sz7mwSGAB1GUEbzIkgDOkp_quvWWNHVBZy-fjURx36OeWjsHxL85f6WvYJ/s6511/pexels-cottonbro-studio-8369526.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4341" data-original-width="6511" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUol8cssShU2fM71Uw4L37AcuRD4UjrkUFHchf01ux4kPycwQWD_O8Ug9GrM9m47xoT69kNQKyDT3ElNNZOMDb9tgSEwSZvEreRRVgrGfh7IwmF5F9av6jg3mlNdRSIwLR9sz7mwSGAB1GUEbzIkgDOkp_quvWWNHVBZy-fjURx36OeWjsHxL85f6WvYJ/w400-h266/pexels-cottonbro-studio-8369526.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I do love one of these boards they use when narrowing down the suspects. Who doesn't love a good diagram? </span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">My day to day life includes time spent trying to maintain order in my life and surroundings. One of the things I truly love is drapes pulled back or blinds raised to let in the beautiful sunshine. This is best enjoyed with sparkling windows. I have spent a great deal of energy trying to keep the windows clean. At present---being in a second floor apartment--I can only clean the inside, but I do my best. The reward for my labor is an unobstructed view.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">In the beloved home we raised our children in, we had a leaded glass front door that I dearly loved. BUT--the draw back was those who insisted upon putting their hands on the glass instead of using the handles. The guilty party's handprints were left behind as evidence of their guilt. NOW---I do not have a fingerprint kit, nor do I have the capability of tracing said prints. A great deal could be discovered by the size of the print---one of the children or an adult? AND since my 3 children were born in three different decades and have quite a gap in age---there was a clue. Was it the 16 year old, the 9 year old or the 2 year old. It didn't take a rocket scientist to determine the culprit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">Evidence helps us in many ways in our lives. We can see evidence of spring coming all around us--the shrubbery is beginning to bloom, the temperatures are beginning to moderate---and the days are longer. The dark clouds coming from the west are evidence of a storm coming. The time spent with family is always filled with evidence of our love for one another. Our beliefs about life and all it holds are usually formed when we examine the evidence surrounding us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"> There is overwhelming evidence ---of God. We all begin to make the mistake of taking a lot for granted as just being part of the world. We forget the complexities of creation and all we are blessed by--without a second thought. Personally I have seen God work in my life over and over. I have had something I have been earnestly praying about for months with seemingly no answer beyond wait. I was prompted in small group prayer time to ask the ladies to pray with me. Within a week---the prayer was answered with God's handprints all over it. The story is wonderful and such an encouragement. Today's point though is the power of two or more praying. It takes courage to admit we need prayer---US---not our loved ones, our friends, our kin---US. God reminded me of my need for a fellowship of Believers to not only study with---but pray with. So many times over the years---I have seen God's handprints on my life--and footprints walking beside me. I am so thankful for this evidence---this reminder of His deep love for us all. AND I am thanking God for those who pray with us--for us--and ask that we pray for them. What a blessing from God.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">"Fear not, for I am with you;</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">be not dismayed for I am your God;</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">I will strengthen you,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">I will help you,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">Isaiah 41:10</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-91707372999206722222024-03-12T06:00:00.004-05:002024-03-12T06:00:00.141-05:00IT'S AN EMERGENCY!<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">My current binge of watching episodes of "Mindless Chatter" involves the medical field. It is no secret among those who know me well that I have endeavored to get my M.D. through Dr. Goggle, various laymen's books including a Nurse's Guide to Drugs, and medical soap operas on television. I keep waiting for my diploma to arrive, but so far no one has recognized my vast medical knowledge. Dr. Son-in-law literally rolls his eyes back in his head if I dare try to enlighten him with my medical wisdom. HEY---I KNOW THINGS!</span></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv64WQT4IpTEo162K9WbxIB1Q9sfrpW9vNli3m8m9NTpElYWO5lGi2pH1d7E93FAd6FZJbC9haPLzdqmfF9gZbB2iZdFTr2EWi8q0E7xM1m2skG1va43FNCOy7fpCkbG1I3u_Y9pLzy-G1VksTUdjnyT2UPQWASJK1MdxFIyP74w_wkVvFomGarsqYsvMU/s1280/child-2166079_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="864" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv64WQT4IpTEo162K9WbxIB1Q9sfrpW9vNli3m8m9NTpElYWO5lGi2pH1d7E93FAd6FZJbC9haPLzdqmfF9gZbB2iZdFTr2EWi8q0E7xM1m2skG1va43FNCOy7fpCkbG1I3u_Y9pLzy-G1VksTUdjnyT2UPQWASJK1MdxFIyP74w_wkVvFomGarsqYsvMU/w270-h400/child-2166079_1280.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The show I am currently watching sometimes focuses on the ER (in England they call it A & E--SEE I know things). In one short 40 minutes everything bizarre and life threatening imaginable will happen. Last night it was a broken baseball bat which had impaled a woman and was sticking out of her chest. The night before it was a typhon arriving with a mudslide (crushing and suffocating) and THEN a church bus evacuating those stranded was blown over and wrecked right in front of the ER-(that was convenient). I have not been sleeping well--perhaps the adrenaline rush after watching an hour of this fast paced--action filled show could be part of the cause??? At any rate---I have seen more action on these shows than I can imagine in my wildest moments. My career as a CPA had one client throw a file at me and some clients jump my case like I wrote the tax laws that created their tax burden, but that was about all the action (the long hours are another subject). There were NO emergencies in the world of taxes -well except the failure of some to anticipate and plan for where the money would come from to pay said taxes. I even had a sign that said it for me in my lobby (a little tongue in cheek but a lot of truth)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjizY3F6vlbSQGfSCnNGC2oN6VYFW_LQK7n_X-xWs-YnAogaqdMSNcV75AP_MRh4nNSKlyHemoVUSEI1GlxZB_xqEEdbjDdw2QlaXfyMHs-Wv5CRJg8YztNI5K45eaCURAgtyUNzXbrDITIyPxbVMWRK4iyk6C8DeC1ANW0Xz5h6z_jgxJQHxa9WyHeb_a7/s420/849c19c34eef7e31d874a7b295dfb502.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="420" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjizY3F6vlbSQGfSCnNGC2oN6VYFW_LQK7n_X-xWs-YnAogaqdMSNcV75AP_MRh4nNSKlyHemoVUSEI1GlxZB_xqEEdbjDdw2QlaXfyMHs-Wv5CRJg8YztNI5K45eaCURAgtyUNzXbrDITIyPxbVMWRK4iyk6C8DeC1ANW0Xz5h6z_jgxJQHxa9WyHeb_a7/w400-h280/849c19c34eef7e31d874a7b295dfb502.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">SO I once asked my dear Godly friend, Dr. Dale, if all the action you saw in those ER shows really happened when he staffed the ER. As only Dr. Dale could, he gave me that look out of the corner of one eye with his eyebrow raised and a little grin and said, "Yes, but not all in one night. You see it all--but it is spread over years." I miss that dear man greatly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">So it is with life---we all have moments of suffering--physically and emotionally--but usually (I will say some do seem to have it piled on) over decades. We WILL suffer in this life. Their will be illness, death of loved ones, accidents, and that is only the tip of the iceberg. The road to sanctification passes through great and small trials of various types. BUT we have a faithful Father who never leaves our side. I can testify of countless times I have told Him, "I can't do this without Your help." He has never failed to uphold me, love me--stand by me. I am so thankful and, though the road gets bumpy and can be steep---God always walks with me--encourages me--teaches me--and is never surprised or caught unaware. Such a comfort--and with each incident in life---my faith has deepened. What a great God we serve.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">"Have I not commanded you?</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Be strong and courageous.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Do not be frightened,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">and do not be dismayed,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">for the Lord your God is with you</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">wherever you go."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Joshua 1:9</span></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-10476136914854275652024-03-11T06:00:00.017-05:002024-03-11T06:00:00.134-05:00LOVE LETTER<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">There are readers of this blog who have been with me for years and there are those who recently joined our fun and games. Depending upon when you started reading and, if you knew me before I began blogging (a long time ago--I think I am on my 3rd or 4th blog) you may or may not know the person behind the blog face. I change almost as often as I seem to move--SIGH! Once again I am using the book I am reading as my inspiration. I hope this gives you a hunger to read it since it has been one of the best books I have read in a while. That report is coming--I am over half way finished--but it is a book which requires relishing--NOT a fast read.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">One certainty is the deeper we know the writer--the more we will understand their written word. Once again--the advent of the internet has not been the friend of the hand written letter. There are so many forms of communication today including podcasts, chatrooms, and other social platforms that written communication is slowly dwindling to a trickle. Hopefully, the more I write--and you read---you will begin to "know" me and understand the nuances and meaning behind what I am trying to say. You will understand when I am being tongue in cheek without me having to tell you. My intent will be crystal clear and you will understand where my thoughts come from and what motivates them. The more we are together--the better we will know each other--especially if you are a regular commenter who gives me the opportunity to know you.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho22GOO1wD3u0_p3yL4qKguFfK5d4Gg29QoLpjIoDXtCRKt3UuY1NGUi2_foqqJYLt73p9PqN6DAfZAsD86F3WyszCQKs9s6TYbzwu0AM7Z1bCmER_Zx2rqb9SJOJa1NwVfI-9Z4JZTrfw_CFEOJllqB-4QVa8_wds3g5HOlW2Tl3o9yEGseJw2Atldnzh/s612/istockphoto-534205340-612x612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho22GOO1wD3u0_p3yL4qKguFfK5d4Gg29QoLpjIoDXtCRKt3UuY1NGUi2_foqqJYLt73p9PqN6DAfZAsD86F3WyszCQKs9s6TYbzwu0AM7Z1bCmER_Zx2rqb9SJOJa1NwVfI-9Z4JZTrfw_CFEOJllqB-4QVa8_wds3g5HOlW2Tl3o9yEGseJw2Atldnzh/w400-h266/istockphoto-534205340-612x612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"> I have an old letter written by my Daddy to my mother during WW II when he was stationed in the European theater.</span> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I can almost hear his voice when I read it and know the very tone his endearments would have. If I showed you the letter, you would think it was sweet---BUT since you did not know my dad---it would not have the same deep emotional meaning it does to me. The better we know the writer--the more we understand the meaning and tone behind the flat words on the page.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">God's Word is a letter to us---a letter filled with His great love for us. The more we get to know God---the better we will understand His letter to us. With time spent with Him seeking Him, communicating with Him, we will grow closer and closer to understanding His intent--and motivation. His great love for us---His Beloved. I pray we all can read His Word and take the time to ponder Who the author is, what our history is with Him, and remembering His intent. I pray it will become God's precious love letter to each and everyone of us.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">"I have loved you with an everlasting love:</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Jeremiah 31:3</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-64077945117501070872024-03-08T06:00:00.007-06:002024-03-08T08:30:37.516-06:00JUST BREATHE<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">HOW MANY TIMES have I told my self to take a deep breath and keep moving. When talking with Dr. Wonderful during my physical we discussed my being winded occasionally. My theory is it comes with age and not being in the great shape I once upon a time was. She agreed that could be the culprit, but said it could also mean I need to get on the tread mill and do a cardio stress test. LET ME SEE HOW I CAN GET OUT OF THAT! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0V3oEYbqw1Tgs6I0G3HsrvDX9tMMSI1vlu0s7TxqMklTwdL4ZHF2FzgjimYjWjYW4LM6QXABSv8B1UHACxqkRMryvEQLIoo23bdDEZNj02Vt_G-oDl7A1OgqqTKwPt7ms_fF3L0_51ltsrhjGt87Y6sNe78WaOTVkcljvYLf636vh3nkwG_p-Hk-S18A/s1280/justbreathe.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0V3oEYbqw1Tgs6I0G3HsrvDX9tMMSI1vlu0s7TxqMklTwdL4ZHF2FzgjimYjWjYW4LM6QXABSv8B1UHACxqkRMryvEQLIoo23bdDEZNj02Vt_G-oDl7A1OgqqTKwPt7ms_fF3L0_51ltsrhjGt87Y6sNe78WaOTVkcljvYLf636vh3nkwG_p-Hk-S18A/w400-h225/justbreathe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Have you ever stopped to consider the act of getting oxygen into your internal system? It is a wonder in itself---a flipping miracle of creation if I EVER knew one. By the act of expanding our diagram we inhale the air around us. It travels to our lungs after being filtered by our bronchia. The lungs then extract the needed oxygen---mix it into our blood---and the heart pumps it all over our body. Oxygen is a fundamental need of the human body. Each and every cell needs oxygen. Without it the part deprived of the oxygen will die--PERIOD<b>.</b> It is a marvel--pure genius----what a Creator we have!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I learned the Lamaze breathing techniques decades ago to help bear pain. It did help during child birth, but I have used it so many times since then when in intense pain. By slowing down our breathing and concentrating on the action of our breathing---our mind is taken off the pain, our muscles unclench, and we are helped with getting past the pain. It works--I promise!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The Word is full of references to breath. We are told in Genesis the very breath of God is in us ~</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">man was a living soul."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Genesis 2:7</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">In one book, <u>Job</u>, I found 11 verses referencing breath. There are countless times in the Old Testament it is used. And then there is the Holy Spirit--the very breath of God . The breath of life that sustains all living beings. God and breath---so closely intertwined --both so very necessary for life. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">SO the next time you are stressed, in pain, hurt, or in distress---just breathe--and know that God Himself enters you and courses through you with the very act of taking a breath we acknowledge Who He is ~</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">"Who among all these does not know</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">that the hand of the Lord has done this?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">In His hand is the life of every living thing</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">and the breath of all mankind."</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">Job 12:9-10</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></div><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-88446700395783635162024-03-07T06:00:00.003-06:002024-03-08T08:30:53.918-06:00ONE EAR OPEN<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">One of the ways the world has made a huge change in my lifetime is the advent of the internet and all that goes with it. Personally I am not a fan of being "available" 24-7 via cell phone. My dirty little secret is I keep my phone on silent when I am busy with other things--like sleeping or talking with a friend or I am just plain down right busy. Do not take it personally--but I feel the phone is for my convenience not yours. When I worked, I had a secretary who screened my calls for me. Those days are in the past, but you can leave a message on my phone and I will get back with you (unless you are trying to sell me something). I do not want a cell phone ruling my life. There is such a thing as being too available.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi8G81R74QSva1V5ojLVRwBOgqmp0vCTW2uYyLVWH9BcWxoMWmUMXUGXdIvWL6-HuoR38OQ7mlDv1KCQ25YXBuFqckHVAGlvOuXJ-Xa6KVnvKpmbUEBrWoNt-Yr9efTWXiICnsZQ2wiInREMlltACopV8LYCfmGnCQFryayAtkdv7SJR_5jLU8OGDCXo4/s543/Clearly%20White-hero-zoom.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="543" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi8G81R74QSva1V5ojLVRwBOgqmp0vCTW2uYyLVWH9BcWxoMWmUMXUGXdIvWL6-HuoR38OQ7mlDv1KCQ25YXBuFqckHVAGlvOuXJ-Xa6KVnvKpmbUEBrWoNt-Yr9efTWXiICnsZQ2wiInREMlltACopV8LYCfmGnCQFryayAtkdv7SJR_5jLU8OGDCXo4/w320-h311/Clearly%20White-hero-zoom.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Here at the Young Executive-College Student Apartment Complex almost everyone walks around with these in their ears. This seems to tie them even closer to their cell in my mind. The internet and all it entails has become the ruler of lives. Dirty little secret #2--I do not have ear buds and do not want ear buds. My children and grands all have them--so it is definitely a generational thing. I am not interested in learning this new trick. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I have used wireless buds for my music in the past while running/walking alone. BUT--I only put one bud in. I wanted to be able to hear the noises around me and two buds seemed to drown out the world. It was important to be able to hear the traffic, and I enjoyed hearing the sounds around me--especially the birds singing. The #1 Rule of running and walking out on the by-ways---stay alert. Be aware of what is happening around you. That is difficult to do if the sounds around you are effectively drowned out by the noise coming from you buds. That is all you can hear.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Any public place is a good indicator of how many are now tuning out the world and selecting to hear only what they want to hear. Is that a good thing? Are we missing out on when we decide we will only listen to what we choose? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">This is all coming from the book I am reading that I posted about recently. One of the best Christian books I have read in a long time. The review is coming---when I finish it. Suffice it to say---it has been a huge wake up for me. BUT--this tidbit really spoke volumes to me and I wanted to share it today. Be open to hearing by listening to the world around you. There are certainly times for quiet contemplation, certainly times we need to focus on the one speaking to us, but there also is the wonder of so much to hear--all around us. I have been inspired by so much of what I have heard and more importantly--it has caused me to think. I am praying we all keep at least one ear open---and practice the art of listening. There is so much to be gained--so many surprises--such a beautiful world of sound playing a symphony all around us. And then there are the soft whispers of God needing our attention. Try it for a day--</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">"He who has ears to hear,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">let him hear."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Matthew 11:15</span></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-86720260675707554942024-03-06T06:00:00.030-06:002024-03-06T06:00:00.136-06:00HELP IN RECOGNIZING THE SCHEME AND THE SCHEMER<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It seems I speak of sin a great deal lately (or so it seems to me). Perhaps this is a sign of my own personal struggle with sin? In my defense, I am reading Leviticus in my annual walk through the Bible plan and when you read ALL those laws---you can get bogged down in how anyone could ever live a sinless life. (THANK GOD & JESUS FOR FREEING US FROM THE LAW) We are studying Genesis on Sunday morning and just hit upon the very first sin. Poor Eve--what a thing to be remembered for. This past Sunday (March 3) the pastor taught on the Devil's Schemes. I walked away with a page full of notes and the certainty I needed to address this. What hope am I giving if all I am talking about is how fallen man has a propensity to sin and no help in fighting off that inclination?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiJba2_ssjL09FxW9b9P2z2yh9NrLRpvQ4kOpGTHxISu-14jshGMa-xuphpqXY2NxRNVjlCIU1qHO2nBIdCfDeLgMB3_jdHbQciE6nP-NJYytTpbNTgrvAGcykJtXwKfiEJnh5z5ycpYLNaNlj2I4hhda8jLHa6BkYwcpZAKI4kI4W2kqen0Mu1OZZW3E/s612/istockphoto-1217831268-612x612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="306" data-original-width="612" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiJba2_ssjL09FxW9b9P2z2yh9NrLRpvQ4kOpGTHxISu-14jshGMa-xuphpqXY2NxRNVjlCIU1qHO2nBIdCfDeLgMB3_jdHbQciE6nP-NJYytTpbNTgrvAGcykJtXwKfiEJnh5z5ycpYLNaNlj2I4hhda8jLHa6BkYwcpZAKI4kI4W2kqen0Mu1OZZW3E/w400-h200/istockphoto-1217831268-612x612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Satan has a game plan and I will give you the high points of what I heard~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>ISOLATION</b>---BOY--did this hit me in the face. In many ways since the pandemic I have lived a very isolated life. It began with a huge amount of caution, knowing I did not want to have the plague. (I do not handle suffering physically well either.) Once the habit of being home became ingrained---my introverted self found that I did not mind being alone. NOW--I love people--enjoy almost all of you (I will not name names of those I might run from). BUT my mother seems to have passed on her introvert gene to all three of her offspring. My sister in law told my brother, "This pandemic shut down played right into the hands of you James'es." Well not intentionally--but all three of us do not mind periods of aloneness. The Word instructs us---to meet together. My favorite together is small group and one on one. We need others to hold us accountable and be our truth tellers. At times we do not realize what we are in the middle of and its danger unless someone hits us in the face with it. God places those in our lives who love us enough to lovingly point out where we are headed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>DISCONTENTMENT</b>-- A friend recently told me of a meeting with a missionary from a third world country where poverty causes a daily struggle for the necessities of life. The missionary told her--"I feel sorry for you Americans! You live in a land of plenty and extravagant riches of abundances which become a huge distraction from the God who supplies WHAT WE NEED." We are guilty of fighting against the concept of enough.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>DOUBTING GOD</b>-- When things are going south for us--when tragedies come--when everyone seems to have more--when we are struggling, there is that evil whisper--</span><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">"How could a loving and good God allow this? This is not fair. Why should I listen to a God who allows this?" You can quickly find in the Word proof that not only is God good in the midst of trouble, but He is faithful and will sustain us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><b>RATIONALIZATION</b>-- NOW I have at least discussed this with you. Our need to tell those little white lies. Sin making sense in our convoluted attempt to justify the wrong path we have taken. The pastor gave this quote from one of the other pastor's on the pastoral team, "You will never find in sin what you went into sin seeking." BUT we still try to rationalize our guilt away.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>LOOKING FOR COMPANY</b>--We seek validation by association. We were told to examine ourselves and ask the question, "Are your friends beginning to change?"<b> </b>We all want others to love us for who we are---even when we are sinful we are seeking approval. Where is your wisdom and accountability coming from?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>BLAME SHIFTING</b>-- Another one we have discussed before. The ultimate aim for Satan is he wants us to blame God. In the "sin in the garden" story, God asked three questions-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Where are you?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Who told you that?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">What did you do?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It had never occurred to me God wanted Adam and Eve to confess, probably because I was so focused on the fall of man. Biblical confession is needed for God to redeem our sin so that we can live in reconciliation with Him. Satan wants us to blame God---but God <b>NEVER </b>tempts anyone.</span></p><p><b style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></b></p><p><b style="font-family: "Open Sans";"> DIVISION</b><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">--Satan's ultimate goal is to cause a break--a division between us and others and, most importantly to our enemy---us and God. We allow him to win if we turn our face from God. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">That crafty old devil is a smooth talker--a magician of words who wants first and foremost to place doubt in our minds. I pray we all will seek truth and remember Who God is.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I am not certain I have ever devoted an entire blog to a sermon (I prefer the term lesson). This was too important to not share. </span></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">"<span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">to make propitiation for the sins of the people.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">For in that He himself has suffered,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">being tempted,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">He is able to aid those who are tempted."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Hebrews 2:17-18</span></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-25554714578609523942024-03-05T06:00:00.006-06:002024-03-05T08:49:38.123-06:00HUDDLE UP!<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I am reading a book recommended by my blogger friend, Martha (you can find her </span><a href="http://marthaorlando.blogspot.com" style="font-family: "Open Sans";">HERE</a><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"> & she is a wonderful poet and writer). It has hit me squarely between the eyes and humbled me---more about that to come---after I finish reading it. In the Introduction I became convicted and hopefully will take it all to heart and grow. Really a great book--that I am certain will inspire future posts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunyyK1IcDqoXAMBn79S5bB-XNdRbz-hY7qYblZuPJ56msrxI4hvh_5NJU25cd9N4IBoom69w60vnLOEx0wVozTwvwmHA1G16VliQDC41B8KbseTTUMslHGd2QvKwZkMlE7VkAGhiSrgvTgofbolZlfb_Lc6EDTEz4r9YryjJy9NrkAbQA3ymhPqJ91bMI/s1941/Huddle.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1941" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunyyK1IcDqoXAMBn79S5bB-XNdRbz-hY7qYblZuPJ56msrxI4hvh_5NJU25cd9N4IBoom69w60vnLOEx0wVozTwvwmHA1G16VliQDC41B8KbseTTUMslHGd2QvKwZkMlE7VkAGhiSrgvTgofbolZlfb_Lc6EDTEz4r9YryjJy9NrkAbQA3ymhPqJ91bMI/w400-h206/Huddle.png" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The book is about how we should be listening. In the introduction the author challenged me about who I am listening to. I am guilty-guilty-guilty of loving to be in that holy huddle of believers. I love to discuss our faith with other believers--love to be challenged by them---love to study -learn- and be stretched by my peers. The truth was pointed out quickly by the author--that in most ways we all look alike. Their views closely parallel mine and, when we discuss, it becomes a "social echo chamber". GASP! Here is an excerpt from the introduction---not even into the meat of the matter yet -</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">"The great hope of the Internet has been that dialogue will prevail, that people with different theologies, worldviews and politics will log in to learn, grow, and communicate with those who disagree with them. Yet, it would seem that social media has helped people connect with like-minded people, and the unfortunate consequence has been the intensifying and radicalizing of beliefs and the deeper entrenchment of people's beliefs. We settle into our own little truth corners."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Think you are not guilty? When is the last time you explored an opposing viewpoint with anyone in any arena? Are we afraid of being challenged? Can we not listen to each other? My sweet counselor friend told me when my daughter was leaving to go off to college, "Be sure she is grounded in her faith, because it will be challenged in the upper education environment." Well---are we grounded enough to be able to listen to another so that we will have the opportunity to explain our faith? Can you explain that faith? I don't mean with "the party line"---I mean on a personal basis. Have you thought about what God has done for you personally and, given the opportunity, can you discuss it without condemning another's view? Are you aware that usually we go on the attack when we are feeling insecure or threatened when discussing with someone of an opposing view? One more quote from the book introduction ~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">"What the Bible portrays as a household of faith instead becomes a scattering of encampments, people who warm themselves by their own fires, whoop with their own war cries, listen solely to their appointed leaders and only interact with the other camps when firing arrows."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">I am not a Biblical scholar, but I am pretty certain Jesus did not preach war---and I know for a fact he did not always sit with those of like mind. He listened. Now, do not get me wrong--we are instructed in The Word to gather together to worship. Iron sharpens iron. We are also given the great commission---and we can only be obedient if we are wiling to step out of the huddle. I am being challenged with every page and pray these words will cause you to think also. Huddling up is great--but the real action begins once the huddle is broken. It's time for me to step away from the huddle. <b>BREAK!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;"><b>"</b>All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">The Father</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">The Son</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">and</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">The Holy Spirit,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."<br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">Matthew 28:18-20</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-77340165317870150742024-03-04T06:00:00.000-06:002024-03-04T06:00:00.147-06:00NEVER CHANGING<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-family: Open Sans; text-align: left;">In a recent email exchange, I asked how the change at work was going. The answer began my wheels turning--- "I suppose change is inevitable." My response was I have lived a life of change and learned to "Go with the flow".</span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfw8heqJuTSBe46osv7ynaFoqM1IYITVNjavk3hiACgXMZyP9MfLxeqepcoUsYzYvzyLJJ5atPUmCiHmKtdyZtY5_7XH3beoyntb8DehxmCzRZT1fsvKEyLKF8QvOCGbmgP4a95Z5u72ckMnQbNeuYycyuS1uPECCmQW9BlgiRFWMvL2OTEx3iszxbccH/s512/unnamed%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="512" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfw8heqJuTSBe46osv7ynaFoqM1IYITVNjavk3hiACgXMZyP9MfLxeqepcoUsYzYvzyLJJ5atPUmCiHmKtdyZtY5_7XH3beoyntb8DehxmCzRZT1fsvKEyLKF8QvOCGbmgP4a95Z5u72ckMnQbNeuYycyuS1uPECCmQW9BlgiRFWMvL2OTEx3iszxbccH/w400-h268/unnamed%20(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Change is inevitable, for we do not live in a static world. Things are always changing. I also found this ~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGmNfPBdNsfi2ZF1KOkw7Bu_7ooP75UD6P4yFFkVG2P55f6RVIdtVCXKMKg-QYr9chundEY2uxxiClZTRN04y70y-DXEwaVJsJHlHdXe1V9HYL8W_JmAdZxToOVMObfRkKm9qfdt5g66JbgxWkYXNNCjf229LG_IeCayCqIT1C_9CgkrKxxAOUWOLvGRs/s3840/4144424-Jack-Canfield-Quote-Change-is-inevitable-in-life-You-can-either.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGmNfPBdNsfi2ZF1KOkw7Bu_7ooP75UD6P4yFFkVG2P55f6RVIdtVCXKMKg-QYr9chundEY2uxxiClZTRN04y70y-DXEwaVJsJHlHdXe1V9HYL8W_JmAdZxToOVMObfRkKm9qfdt5g66JbgxWkYXNNCjf229LG_IeCayCqIT1C_9CgkrKxxAOUWOLvGRs/w640-h360/4144424-Jack-Canfield-Quote-Change-is-inevitable-in-life-You-can-either.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Platitudes are great, but real life is another thing entirely. While mulling this over, I thought about standing in the strong Texas winds that blow from the west consistently. I can walk facing the wind and refusing to change direction be blown flat on my butt, or I can change directions and allow the wind to help move me along. It is my choice. Life is filled with change--it is a given. Our part of change is to either adapt to it or fight a losing battle against it. Changes come--in all areas of life. It is just a matter of time---get ready because change is coming. I love the above quote and hope we all can seek the opportunities and not get stuck in the mire of refusal to comply. Sooner or later--we must either comply or get left behind. That can become a real struggle as we age.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">There is one constant that never changes in life---the fact that Jesus paid the price for our failures. That does not change. The promise of eternity is all because of Him and there is no compromise. Not to say that we cannot change our opinions over points of theology with growth and study. BUT the one thing which is never going to change is what Jesus did for us. It is the line in the sand. Come what may---as the world swiftly changes---Jesus is the sure and certain way. No need for change when He is the answer.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"For I the Lord do not change."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Malachi 3:6</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-8924553719688166722024-03-01T06:00:00.011-06:002024-03-01T06:00:00.148-06:00COVER UP<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Texas weather is a proverbial whirlwind. You don't like today's weather--stick around--your favorite kind is coming. As I write this a cold front screeched through last night--literally. The wind howled all night and is still making its presence heard. Today the highs will be in the 40's--wind chills in the 30's----yesterday it was in the 80's and the day before it was in the mid 90's. YES--you heard me right--it hit 95 Monday after a slow warming trend claimed dominance at the end of last week. And with those rising temperatures the snow bunnies became bathing beauties.</span></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6aBAdcGgHQzLBBURKwAk9BgqU4rIDzKm_yVwnNxkYfk0K6HWQHwCFBXVCUOhOMdYd_kig-w4y9V0Q2MEfxGidHJA1FpzP2vnEt4kWdU1zXLD7xTlkQxuhmlPPbvxLoUlRjI3aKHMK6JbBUuvX9Z1QIotsoxjfSSL1iTvQbZAjtXzBm3J614mFMdAXt8_/s194/download%20(6).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="194" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6aBAdcGgHQzLBBURKwAk9BgqU4rIDzKm_yVwnNxkYfk0K6HWQHwCFBXVCUOhOMdYd_kig-w4y9V0Q2MEfxGidHJA1FpzP2vnEt4kWdU1zXLD7xTlkQxuhmlPPbvxLoUlRjI3aKHMK6JbBUuvX9Z1QIotsoxjfSSL1iTvQbZAjtXzBm3J614mFMdAXt8_/w400-h377/download%20(6).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">As Hero and I walked by one of the pools during his noon time constitutional stroll, we noticed the pool area was filled with all the young college coeds in their sunning attire. They all prefer the brands Barely There and Covers Nothing for their swim suit wardrobe. NOW-in fairness to them--if I still looked like they do perhaps I would dress similarly. In the days when I did look like them, even though I was a little rebellious, I did not dare barely dress. Momma kept a tight rein on some parts of my life--with the aim of always being a lady. AND a lady certainly did not overexpose herself in public! </span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Today's my swimsuit wardrobe is filled with the brands Behind a Berka and Covers It All. Time and living life has taken a toll on my body and it is best kept covered. Lesson learned about over exposure to the sun after skin cancer surgery is one small example. I have a criss- cross of scars & wrinkles from surgeries, accidents, and the pull of gravity. Perhaps I would be doing those lovely coeds a favor if I walked out there in a bikini sans cover up and showed them what they have to look forward to. Instead--IF I dared to go to the pool, it would be with a cover up that I took off after I found a chair in some obscure dark corner (then what is the point of going to the pool). Some things are best not seen---with me in a swimsuit on the list.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I have noticed they all walk to the pool in some form of coverup. There are over 700 apartments in this complex so it it a huge area requiring walking through and around several buildings. They are careful to keep everything covered with a long shirt or swim cover. Once they reach the pool--the cover is flung off and they found a chair to sprawl in and soak up the sun. So much for the cover up---if you didn't see anything on the way to the pool--it was all exposed once they arrived at the pool. Very little left for the imagination--with only strings to hide behind.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">NOW---don't think I am some old grandma prude--on second thought perhaps I am. The point of this post is not swimsuits at all. This reminded me of our (that means me too) efforts to cover up our sin---hide it behind some excuse or justification of the whys it is not our fault. We think---no one will ever know as long as we are sinning behind cover--but though man may not know---there is One Who knows all. There is no way to cover it up--sweep it under the rug--or hide behind the tree. He knows--just ask Adam and Eve. SO before you don that sin cover up---remember God sees it all. Yes---our sin is forgiven once we accept Jesus into our life. BUT there will come a day when we stand before the throne and see a recap of our lives. Will it be criss-crossed with the wrinkles and scars from a sinful life or will we reflect the perfection of striving toward Jesus? My toes are black and blue---I just stepped all over them.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">so that each one my receive what is due</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">for what he has done in the body,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">whether good or evil."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">II Corinthians 5:10</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-22417378493357313112024-02-29T06:00:00.014-06:002024-02-29T06:00:00.152-06:00IN ALL THINGS MODERATION<span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I LOVE my Fort Worth Doctor, BUT----I DO NOT always love what she has to say during my annual physical. This year was no different, BUT she is a truth-teller in my life. Last year--I had to go back in for a check at six months. She was not happy with my weight. This year---through my great efforts---the weight is great---the numbers are not so great. I have been bordering on taking cholesterol meds for years. NOW, it is in my genes since both bothers take the meds, but I am not a fan of meds. SO I eat chicken--so much chicken I could lay eggs and definitely do a lot of clucking. Exercise has also been a key--but since the pandemic lock down, I have not been consistent in my exercise program. I walk everyday--but the weights--well it is hit or miss. I miss a LOT! SO--stubborn soul that I am---I am once again trying to get with the program.-</span><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The surprise number this year was my triglycerides. They have NEVER been high, but this year--SURPISE--they are above acceptable margins. She & I talked this over---since I am a creature of habit, it didn't take long to narrow down the culprit. When you eat and drink the same thing day in- day out---it is pretty easy to track down the seemingly innocent culprit. I LOVE lemonade and now that you can get it infused with all the berry flavors it is my favorite drink. I was drinking several glasses of lemonade throughout the day. IT IS SO YUMMY! BUT she is pretty certain this is my downfall. NOW in my defense, there are worse things than drinking lemonade---but that is no excuse.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOGDb4PuKXpbYqyJi1A3QjyYIikVasSx4l2gg00CNI6js5adnIOcaTacUgAlNfFOZwXurFexFknqzsAye9qins7o_VlcmrECSZg1nFerHHkfFblZFZ3RbnU_GfdMkLf6xP7ygQWctzaZZ-F0GElw7CdTnU-Q2RRbGYLpj8Uz9zD-JRgYK-RbNSJlVWpKY/s1110/front-view-fresh-cool-lemonade-with-ice-blue-background-juice-drink-colors-water-fruit-cold-cocktail_140725-157139.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="740" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOGDb4PuKXpbYqyJi1A3QjyYIikVasSx4l2gg00CNI6js5adnIOcaTacUgAlNfFOZwXurFexFknqzsAye9qins7o_VlcmrECSZg1nFerHHkfFblZFZ3RbnU_GfdMkLf6xP7ygQWctzaZZ-F0GElw7CdTnU-Q2RRbGYLpj8Uz9zD-JRgYK-RbNSJlVWpKY/w266-h400/front-view-fresh-cool-lemonade-with-ice-blue-background-juice-drink-colors-water-fruit-cold-cocktail_140725-157139.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">SO---I am going back to drinking Arnold Palmer's. If you are not familiar--this is iced tea(decaf in my case) with a splash of lemonade. I will have withdrawal for about a week--but it's the price you pay when you fall off the sugar wagon. LESSON LEARNED--too much of a good thing is not always a good thing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">WELL now where in the world could I be headed with this? Moderation is a good thing--but I am not always good at moderation. Somehow I begin to believe if a little is good--what harm could a lot be? This is not always the case in life. I can truthfully tell you I ran too many miles over my lifetime. What began as a healthy activity became an obsession. I ran my first marathon after completing a half marathon and thinking--this is no big deal--I can do a marathon. Can I tell you the difference in a half marathon and a whole? Double it---and quadruple the pain. I also have mechanical issues and misalignments which lead to much pain and suffering. I took WAY too many naproxen and now live with the damage done to my kidneys. TOO MUCH is just that---over the line --leading to permanent damage. Moderation is the key. I could have enjoyed all the same benefits without the wear and tear on my body. BUT I became obsessed--and our obsessions can be our downfall.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Even The Word addresses moderation--</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"Let your moderation be known unto all men."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Ephesians 4:5</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">AND there is quote after quote to be found about it. Bottom line---"Everything in moderation, including moderation," Oscar Wilde.</span></div>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-59612070106808618682024-02-28T06:00:00.002-06:002024-02-28T08:22:08.989-06:00CURIOSITY<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">In the last couple of weeks, we have spoken of conversation and the intent behind it a great deal. I absolutely LOVE it, when in the course of a conversation,</span> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">a golden nugget of wisdom appears. Perhaps we should always enter any conversation with this in mind ~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>BE MORE CURIOUS THAN CERTAIN</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I am fairly certain this came from the following quote~</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6RplsbZtgGTanScywQHN_dfwtEdni20kpEelXivkRi9WiPYbGXSJU7LWK4Y9-_F5skrlo9caGGGyJvYnnGod-TirUBBe00hGTq1POO2LAQDuHf0Z4KOmulPv-ng1WC4YZvSsMj-bDxfzJjc923rHG5G6v-iL_f2qU1mOAd4WPXugd6hkKP_45e18gnzv/s1080/b7d8b6ee1697897dc2af6f8f76dea4d0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6RplsbZtgGTanScywQHN_dfwtEdni20kpEelXivkRi9WiPYbGXSJU7LWK4Y9-_F5skrlo9caGGGyJvYnnGod-TirUBBe00hGTq1POO2LAQDuHf0Z4KOmulPv-ng1WC4YZvSsMj-bDxfzJjc923rHG5G6v-iL_f2qU1mOAd4WPXugd6hkKP_45e18gnzv/w266-h400/b7d8b6ee1697897dc2af6f8f76dea4d0.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">If only we could remember this, before launching into an argument. What if we could hear everyone out on their side of the conversation and not immediately jump on the band wagon of you are wrong. Are you listening to what is being said or thinking about how to refute it? There is much to be learned from determining where the speaker is coming from before declaring him dead dog wrong. I truly believe there are two sides to almost every argument. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">What if before declaring the opposing view wrong, we were willing to hear them out--before interrupting (we talked about that recently) and with an open mind. Do they perhaps have a point? Could there be more to the argument than we understand. Do we even give them an opportunity to state their view? Are we the least bit curious or are we closed off and unwilling to listen to what they are thinking? Would it make any difference if a loved one was the one we didn't agree with? Is there any way any part of our argument could be flawed or there could be extenuating circumstances? Are we the least bit curious? Food for thought today---do a little introspection and be curious.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"Let each of you look not only to his own interests,</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">but also to the interests of others."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Philippians 2:4</span></div><p></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-21369094818057121812024-02-27T06:00:00.035-06:002024-02-27T06:00:00.134-06:00THE TRUTH ~THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRs6M7vZFQJvYBKC90WutySr_XTulTIay8ls1Qywsm7d6Dd9RcacawAEzCrrl3LMbi_X8wGwFuflEj0VUn9Nygx5dVFtNCttGxomax9fSRkjkrccYAJoaKddQiST80efbIB6BdIUCBlcVsMtcbEi2iS964-eIeyJ3tvQXkMhsUboe2E8saKSjjInQjQ0h/s541/360_F_349823229_F1xky5o9mMx6hdSgJf2NqOjMvv0Yhadm.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="541" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRs6M7vZFQJvYBKC90WutySr_XTulTIay8ls1Qywsm7d6Dd9RcacawAEzCrrl3LMbi_X8wGwFuflEj0VUn9Nygx5dVFtNCttGxomax9fSRkjkrccYAJoaKddQiST80efbIB6BdIUCBlcVsMtcbEi2iS964-eIeyJ3tvQXkMhsUboe2E8saKSjjInQjQ0h/w400-h266/360_F_349823229_F1xky5o9mMx6hdSgJf2NqOjMvv0Yhadm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Once again--mindless television has conjured up a topic from empty chatter. Deception was the word that caught my attention. Exactly what is deception? Dr. Google gives this explanation~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>The act of hiding the truth, especially to get an advantage.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">NOW, that opens a can of worms! Does this say we are deceiving only when we are working to get an advantage? The more I read the more confused as I felt like I was going in circles. Most of us think deception involves lying---and I found out that is not always the case. Lying involves making a false statement. "Deception does not require that one make a false statement or make any statement at all. True statements can be deceptive and some forms of deception do not involve making statements. " AND then I found this~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br />"Deception includes both dissimulation (hiding or withholding information) and stimulation (putting out wrong or misleading information). Both deception and lying can be accomplished by omission as well as by commission."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">One word uttered on a mindless-meaningless episode of "Mindless Chatter" and I am off to the races. Time to pause and reflect on exactly where I am trying to go. One thing which came to mind was exaggeration. At one time or another all of us are probably guilty of exaggeration. "I thought I was going to die!" is more than likely an exaggeration used to try to convey the depth of our feelings. Only necessary in our minds, we do not trust that the depth of our distress will be understood--so we exaggerate. Is exaggeration deception? As with many things--it depends upon intent. Are we trying to get an advantage or are we trying to make certain the depths of our emotion are understood. In any conversation with one who English is not their native tongue, our tendency to exaggerate or the use of colloquialisms can cause great confusion. There are times we should say what we mean and mean what we say.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">In my mind deception always comes with intent. If we omit the truth, exaggerate the truth, or avoid the truth for personal gain---we are in the business of deception. BUT this lead me down the next road. What would you think the worst deception is? "Mindless Chatter" labeled the deception of ourselves the worst form. Interesting------Once again Dr. Google listed these are examples of deceiving ourselves~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">1. Keep making excuses for ourselves or others.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">2. Can't accept responsibility for things.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">3. Keep blaming others (blame shifting).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">4. Keep avoiding unpleasant realities.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">5. Feel defensive or threatened when people challenge us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">AND then I found this -</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>"We deceive ourselves to better deceive others."</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">WELL--now that leads me to believe deception is most certainly about intent. It is a double whammy---we begin with "me" so that we can spill over to "you". I tend to fool myself on many levels. I might state---"I plan to workout today" to try and convince myself and whomever is at the other end of the statement that I will be in the gym---fully knowing I plan to sit on the sofa eating chips and watching "Mindless Chatter". </span><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";">SO--perhaps we all need a truth meter installed to warn others when we are "exaggerating" or just plain down right telling a falsehood. Remember that statement~ "Why can't we all just get along? " Knowing the world would be such a better place, if we did, we ask this question. Today I am asking,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">"Why can't we all just stick to the truth?" A point to consider while doing your thinking and pondering today-----AM I A TRUTH TELLER?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"So put away all malice </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and all deceit</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"> and hypocrisy</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and envy and slander."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">I Peter 2:1</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"The heart is deceitful above all things</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and beyond cure.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Who can understand it?"</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Jeremiah 17:9</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-68715306699787358762024-02-26T06:00:00.016-06:002024-02-26T06:00:00.258-06:00DESENSITIZING<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The Wonder Dog did not come to live with me without some trials. To begin with, he came with a back injury which took weeks of rehab. He was dragging a leg and this necessitated me picking him up so that he could make as few steps as possible at the start of his rehab. He also was not house-broken and this required MANY trips outside until he got the hang of it. I had to constantly keep an eye on him so that he would not over exert or lift a leg. After two rounds of anti-inflammatories, we began to slowly increase his walking distance. It was at least three months of constant attention, before it looked like he was headed in the right direction. I have told you before, Hero was my grand's dog when I took him. There were 3 under 4 and a baby on the way. To say that he had to feign for himself is an understatement. When ever the little ones were around he was a favorite toy to torment. He actually spent a great deal of time hiding from those 3 boys. I can't imagine why since he became their live plaything. After those three months of me nursing him and house-breaking him, I told my daughter, "He's my dog now." There was a great deal of relief--on her part and Hero's part. He had landed in Dog Narnia by coming to my house. More than one friend has expressed they would like to be my dog. It comes with its rewards, BUT you also have to do things my way. He is easy to snatch up and we always go the way I want. POOR HERO---NOT!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB97e2EUk84fegR0nZYDTj2uPI1Vod_k4viaKdznYIOHnT6dxt9fKvEthV0y6oI_MiIifj63Kh9UDlg4HZVrxLSJ63TDknsZGww90qYYCbnEXHppXQGJWn_n4mb5zuKTCdkB8B1JGYuiaQTY-4Ie1r6SZY1jx3dfA9CWwCjywjo-X6frjxhWNWX2Hf8iyo/s640/IMG_0969.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB97e2EUk84fegR0nZYDTj2uPI1Vod_k4viaKdznYIOHnT6dxt9fKvEthV0y6oI_MiIifj63Kh9UDlg4HZVrxLSJ63TDknsZGww90qYYCbnEXHppXQGJWn_n4mb5zuKTCdkB8B1JGYuiaQTY-4Ie1r6SZY1jx3dfA9CWwCjywjo-X6frjxhWNWX2Hf8iyo/w300-h400/IMG_0969.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Here he is staying with #1 daughter and #1 Granddaughter, when I had the flu after Thanksgiving. I could not walk him, so he spent a week with them. I am pretty certain that look is, "HELP!!" He is a quirky little dog(I call him My Needy Old Man) and has learned to love our routine and solitude. With four children, routine is a three ring circus at their house. He still hides from them. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I have always loved dogs, but after not having an inside dog for decades when Hero came to live with me---I had allergy problems. My allergies have actually gotten worse with age. I had noticed allergies anytime I stayed with the grands, but I would blow, sniff and go on. When Hero moved in, it took a LOT of anti-histamines and time to become desensitized to him. With time and treatment, I began to tolerate being exposed better. Now---I still have allergies, but I was not having problems with Hero in Louisiana, so I am pretty certain I am allergic to Texas (they call it cedar fever over here). The human body is an amazing thing---we can learn to tolerate so much with time and exposure.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">As I was thinking this over, I thought about how we desensitize ourselves to sin with exposure. I little fib becomes white lies and finally can settle into full blow deceit. When we do not stop to repent for those "little" sins we open ourselves up to "big" sins. This supports my belief that sin is sin---there is no sliding scale of degree. And then we do things which numb our body from the effects of sin---we medicate ourselves with man-made remedies. It is truly a slippery slope. I am so thankful I have learned to tolerate the dog dander which gave me so much grief, BUT caution is necessary when it comes to sin. I do not want to open the door to sin by allowing exposure to creep in. Okay--I am ready--tell me what you think.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"But each one is tempted when he is drawn away </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">by his own desires and enticed.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Then, when desire has conceived,,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">it gives birth to sin,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and, sin, when it is full-grown,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">brings forth death.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Do not be deceived,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">my beloved brethren."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">James 1:14-16</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-43476542114341332812024-02-23T06:00:00.004-06:002024-02-23T06:00:00.136-06:00WHEN I AM WEAK<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Have you ever looked around you and allowed yourself to observe? With time and thought, you may discover others have exactly what you think you want. Their lives look so full and you cannot understand why you are not living a life such as theirs. Their families seem as if they came for a Hallmark movie. Their marriages are long and successful with someone who still wants to hold their hand after decades. Their homes are warm and invitingly decorated with style. Their dinners are gourmet creations with seemingly no effort. You notice others in your line of work who have worked their way to the top of the field. They are well rounded and well respected and possess great integrity. Everyone in their wake walks away impressed and desiring to be just like them. Everything they attempt is mastered and they never seem to fail. Every trip is perfect and they have traveled extensively and enjoyed great adventures. Every single aspect of their lives seems perfect in every way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wROxKrLP64NGWRW5mZcMstBomQ8H2GErm-EPVGbTF9iX5KdyYSVx_NPKF_qJv8Dm0UkN6EY4KvWf5sbdDXlr4zfXNA6Hjes043j4CyVFQ77BXNMPgH8HYBSPDcO-3N8X7LswAKbYhdwUip8pZ8aq3mdehom1KusNwEVBX52V6UEPxawTKuQ9xJA_KtPy/s1200/when-i-am-weak-he-is-strong-wall-art-canvas-print-christian-walls-830662_1200x1200%20(1).webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="1200" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wROxKrLP64NGWRW5mZcMstBomQ8H2GErm-EPVGbTF9iX5KdyYSVx_NPKF_qJv8Dm0UkN6EY4KvWf5sbdDXlr4zfXNA6Hjes043j4CyVFQ77BXNMPgH8HYBSPDcO-3N8X7LswAKbYhdwUip8pZ8aq3mdehom1KusNwEVBX52V6UEPxawTKuQ9xJA_KtPy/w400-h283/when-i-am-weak-he-is-strong-wall-art-canvas-print-christian-walls-830662_1200x1200%20(1).webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The world would have you believe their are those who lead this perfect life. Perhaps they may even think they have achieved perfection. What I have learned is to not envy---not even desire that perfection. With every hole I have climbed out of, every mountain which had to be scaled, every roadblock creating need for detour, every health scare requiring patience, every loss of the dearest. In fact with every sad, difficult, heart wrenching disappointment I have learned things are not always what they seem when you are looking at others. My most significant growth has always come with adversity. At no time is God more apparent than when I am struggling, suffering, and in despair. When I run out of places to turn, and recognize I cannot do this without Him ~ I finally get it. I cannot do this without a relationship with God. All the other--though nice--is temporary---He is eternal. No matter what I do, what success I claim, how loving my family is, how good my health---it is all fleeting. He is everlasting. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Real growth and spiritual maturity comes with real struggle and pain. When our humanness fails us then I realize only by His Grace can I hold my head up. These lyrics say it so well~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>You are my strength when I am weak</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>You are the treasure that I seek</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>You are my all in all </i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Taking my cross my sin my shame</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Raising again I praise Your name</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>You are my all in all</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>When I fall down You pick me up</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>When I run dry You fill my cup</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>You are my all in all</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Jesus, Lamb of God</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Holy is Your name</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Jesus, Lamb of God</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i>Holy is Your name</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"Not that I speak in regard to need,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">for I have learned in whatever state I am,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">to be content:</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">I know how to be abased,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and I know how to abound.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Everywhere and in all things</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">I have learned both to be full</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and to be hungry,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">both to abound and to suffer need.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><i> </i>I can do all things through Christ</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Who strengthens me."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Philippians 4:11-13</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-23993880791867616492024-02-22T06:00:00.003-06:002024-02-22T06:00:00.351-06:00FRESH START<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It always amazes me how one word or one phrase can start my wheels turning. I do not even remember where I heard "fresh start"---nor the context of why it was said, but it struck a note with me. Exactly what is a fresh start and can you really have one?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZz5LwQzfa1fNHOGlQaYrbRvpch0psgkQOTZt85uJfYKscPCwv_P89oSRzLFR0q4aFzzILuGgjplccec3ZQflfNfLMWwHNh3QTFRB0ixVWF2qj_c128RYe7ABdqgfKsSIoLaqOH3YIFm8PXkkqCYAnw6k9cXh_pyNv7nLlojwwwewag-ufhkSrLwbWX3nY/s390/fresh-start-green-road-sign-260nw-323153957.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="390" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZz5LwQzfa1fNHOGlQaYrbRvpch0psgkQOTZt85uJfYKscPCwv_P89oSRzLFR0q4aFzzILuGgjplccec3ZQflfNfLMWwHNh3QTFRB0ixVWF2qj_c128RYe7ABdqgfKsSIoLaqOH3YIFm8PXkkqCYAnw6k9cXh_pyNv7nLlojwwwewag-ufhkSrLwbWX3nY/w400-h288/fresh-start-green-road-sign-260nw-323153957.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I have a friend who is a talented artist. She sent me a photo of her latest creation---and MY GOODNESS it was beautiful. BUT artists are really hard on themselves and she was not satisfied. The next time I asked about it she had painted over the entire painting and started over---OR HAD SHE? Yes, the original painting was gone, BUT she created a different color canvas when she painted over it. SO the colors under whatever she painted next would be directly impacting her next creation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">We often think each January 1 is a fresh start, but is it? How can what happened in all the previous years not impact our actions in the new year. We cannot erase history--as much as we might like to. We cannot undo what has been done and it CERTAINLY influences our future behavior. IF we are willing to learn from our past and change our ways, we can do better. I have a fresh start in my exercise program at least once a year and sometimes more. I get off track, get sick, become discouraged and a variety of other excuses and come to a dead stop. I then get a fresh start on couch sitting, surfing the net, and reading books. BUT the remarkable thing about the human body--we have muscle memory. SO yes, I am beginning again, but not from ground zero. My muscles remember my history and they get in the swing quicker than the very first time I started. My history gives me the opportunity to do better by quickly getting back to where I left off and then the do better can begin.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">SO--the point--do not beat yourself up when you have to start over at whatever. We always have the opportunity to do better and though we may feel we sometimes come up lacking or woefully short---we can move forward with the knowledge of what we gained on our last try. God never intended us to become discouraged and give up. He gave us a memory so that we might learn and try again. Call it a fresh start if that helps you make the effort, but do not quit. Second chances was created by God because of His love for mankind. Don't give up---keep moving forward.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">"Being confident of this,</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">that He who began a good work in you</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">will carry it on to completion</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">until the day of Christ Jesus."</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><span style="background-color: white;">Philippians 1:6</span></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-26034948164083609112024-02-21T06:00:00.001-06:002024-02-21T06:00:00.248-06:00IT WASN'T ME!<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It does not take long for us to learn to look for someone to blame when we mess up. We learn that lesson early in life, by suffering the consequences of those messes we make. At times I think the strongest muscle in our body is the pointing finger. We do PLENTY of pointing in life. How easy it is to look for someone else to blame. It is a form of distraction from the truth. We cannot stand the heat when we have started the fire and in an attempt to get out of the spotlight of blame we point the finger at someone else. We might have been guilty of whatever happened, BUT someone else gave us the idea or told us to do it. How many times did I hear my teens say, "Everyone was doing it". My standard retort, "I am not in charge of everyone---only you.". Learned or human nature---we all try to shift the weight of our wrong onto the shoulders of ANYONE but ourselves.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpJgIycVB14gp05lNJQYweYEDN4Q2h8jA9negW8OscHNPoNWbwk_UQmxXGoQEJZG__dpGuAWgKxPwOKnQ_wyL_nns3LsW8yXCD4F8gkw7PR2EFWNP_VVGcMZ7XZdUfsz4G4uBeCkGmEHp8srZMRKMSwWmDWYOXTag0L5WFk-p-J3FJuxvdaxFM0k5xfY-/s1024/scapegoat-childs-role-in-narcissistic-abuse-1024x716.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1024" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpJgIycVB14gp05lNJQYweYEDN4Q2h8jA9negW8OscHNPoNWbwk_UQmxXGoQEJZG__dpGuAWgKxPwOKnQ_wyL_nns3LsW8yXCD4F8gkw7PR2EFWNP_VVGcMZ7XZdUfsz4G4uBeCkGmEHp8srZMRKMSwWmDWYOXTag0L5WFk-p-J3FJuxvdaxFM0k5xfY-/w400-h280/scapegoat-childs-role-in-narcissistic-abuse-1024x716.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">In the Old Testament book of Leviticus we find this~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"And when he has made an end of atoning for the Holy Place</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and the tent of meeting and the alter,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">he shall present the live goat.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">And Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and confess over it all the iniquities of Israel,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and all their transgressions and all their sins.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">And he shall put them on the head of the goat</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and send it away into the wilderness</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">by the hand of a man who is in readiness.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">The goat shall bear all their iniquities on itself to a remote area,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and he shall let the goat go free in the wilderness."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Leviticus 16:20-22</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The first scapegoat was explained as one that bears the blame for others. The totally innocent goat was cast out. In most cases, when we name a scapegoat for our wrongs, they quickly deny wrong and refuse to bear the punishment. Not so with Christ----the Ultimate Scapegoat---who bore the blame for our sin--without protest---not one word. Think about this next time you are trying to blame someone else for what you have done. It is humbling to say the least.</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-35612667578550463422024-02-20T06:00:00.001-06:002024-02-20T06:00:00.271-06:00THINGS WE SHOULD TALK ABOUT<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">There are things we should talk about---but this certainly hinges upon the listener. Small talk is just that---"talk with little substance". Ecclesiastes tells us there is a time and place for everything and this includes conversation. Conversation should always hinge upon those in the conversation arena with you. Being sensitive to who is listening and their position in life is always smart. You do not want to be talking about running with someone who is not only not a runner, but totally uninterested in running. When you ask, "What books have you read lately?" and are told the listener does not enjoy reading--give it up. A dead give away that you have hit upon a boring subject to the other (s) is a glazed and bored expression. Your interest and intensity will not change their disinterest.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkm0WxdDtbamjX1fXzCI83iCHMVkPaXObUmMzQ3pJ6OzIrs0NxTuWqOGDe6X2oDhMs_ERnEjipOiyLg9tviR5Mh2CnT9AubQEsqbNWGUSIRmaE19gGMCJh2PvcKYq93iZKSJGUsplzcoKyQBjVF-OiUUMztgRjjTQMFUku_vaSy43-_gv2Ddel8RhwIyQ/s600/depositphotos_205496802-stock-photo-closeup-studio-portrait-sad-blonde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkm0WxdDtbamjX1fXzCI83iCHMVkPaXObUmMzQ3pJ6OzIrs0NxTuWqOGDe6X2oDhMs_ERnEjipOiyLg9tviR5Mh2CnT9AubQEsqbNWGUSIRmaE19gGMCJh2PvcKYq93iZKSJGUsplzcoKyQBjVF-OiUUMztgRjjTQMFUku_vaSy43-_gv2Ddel8RhwIyQ/w400-h266/depositphotos_205496802-stock-photo-closeup-studio-portrait-sad-blonde.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">The one thing we should talk about is our affection for our loved ones. Not to say there are not other subjects that with the right partner (s) can lead to an interesting conversation, BUT pick your audience carefully. We definitely should never refrain from telling those we love and hold in high esteem our feelings for them. You never know when your last opportunity will come, and the loss of opportunity will take with it regret over things left unsaid. SO---seize the day---take the plunge---do not put off or assume the other knows by implication. SAY IT---even when it's difficult--it should be said. We need to not only have those hard conversations, but we should also be absolutely certain we convey our feelings for others. Yes, doing is important and we certainly should know by the actions of others their feelings. BUT, cover your bases---by open to declaring your feelings of esteem. All of us need to know we are loved----so talk about it--declare verbally your love. Leave no doubt---give every assurance---and, at the end of the day, know they knew--because you told them.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">a time to keep silence, and a time to speak</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">a time to love"</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7-8</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-83965229690668366222024-02-19T06:00:00.067-06:002024-02-19T06:00:00.254-06:00THINGS WE SHOULDN'T TALK ABOUT IT<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">My daughter and I discussed "The stuff we don't want to talk about" on a recent hurried trip to Costco. I love to mull over topics with others and always come away with expanded ideas about what we are discussing. This subject proved to be no exception. Yesterday we explored the things we don't want to talk about. We are headed in a slightly different direction today---the "stuff" we shouldn't talk about. There is a difference. One is an absolute and the other a preference.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSZp6bm8qQ7o3bKXkK6p-IxyReM8z_1ns9xKam-6zUWaZZpfgVWdYldz-HWZtW0qZpcMvRq8H6ZjrnOWtYyHqwUFUNfpxZNsuK2EZbQ4M5UItLKbgotgusXyOXOywW93Pv2K-CnA-bMQPYwA9brFfwwU1hwhAoQOiZZqebpkWA4u5iu2fDOxwhCPyu-h5/s600/no-talking-icon-logo-dont-600nw-2297411807.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSZp6bm8qQ7o3bKXkK6p-IxyReM8z_1ns9xKam-6zUWaZZpfgVWdYldz-HWZtW0qZpcMvRq8H6ZjrnOWtYyHqwUFUNfpxZNsuK2EZbQ4M5UItLKbgotgusXyOXOywW93Pv2K-CnA-bMQPYwA9brFfwwU1hwhAoQOiZZqebpkWA4u5iu2fDOxwhCPyu-h5/s320/no-talking-icon-logo-dont-600nw-2297411807.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">When you search the WWW for subjects that we shouldn't talk about you can come up with the usual-</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Finances</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Politics</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Religion</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Death</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Age </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Appearance</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Sex</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">AND I LOVE THIS ONE---FOR THE SENIOR GENERATION-Bowel Movements</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I found this quote which concisely gives guidelines~</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">"Don't interrupt. (personal side note-I am guilty) . Avoid conversations that you have no in depth knowledge of or personal experience with. <b>STAY IN YOUR LANE" </b>We could ALL benefit from staying in our lane and avoiding a collision especially when talking. AND if we only talk about things we are knowledgeable about--we might find a need to develop our listening skills and we might appear not quite so ignorant. Everyone loves a good listener.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Don't think you have to fill every moment of silence. Your discomfort is no greater than that of the one you are talking with. When you feel the need to fill every moment with sound--you are headed for talking about something you have no business talking about and may cause you or another personal harm. Less is always better in conversation. More can lead to a slippery slope and take you over the edge. Going over the edge can cause great harm-either to you or another--or perhaps both.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Today, I am only going to speak on one of these personal taboo subjects and I did not find it mentioned in any of the places I looked online. That subject is any time you insert into a conversation something which is "NOT YOUR STORY TO TELL". My dear counselor friend introduced me to this idea some time ago. </span><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"> I know when another person is involved--we have to be mindful to not betray a trust. A good rule of thumb is to not discuss anything which is not "your story to tell". ANY time we start repeating events which we were not the first party to---we totter on the brink of gossiping. Only the first party can accurately tell the story. Greater harm can be done repeating the story--even in defense--than keeping our mouth shut. Some things--just do not need to be said. </span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Are there exceptions to this rule? At times, there might be a need to talk about a subject for your own clarification and processing. BUT, when discussing the topic--you may get clarity, but you may also harm another. This is a tight rope which is strung high and tight. It requires finding the right person to discuss the situation with. Someone who can be trusted to not repeat what you have said and has proven to give wise counsel. That can be a rare bird to find. NOW--I get needing a sounding board to help discern a topic, especially when it involves a loved one who has been harmed or hurt. I also know when another person is involved--we have to be mindful to not betray a trust. ANY time we start repeating events which we were not the first party to---we totter on the brink of gossiping. Only the first party can accurately tell the story. Greater harm can be done repeating the story--even in defense--than keeping our mouth shut. Some things--just do not need to be said. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">SO---what shouldn't we talk about? It could be a variety of subjects. First Rule---think before you speak. Who are you talking with? Is this something I want to share? How will this be heard? Is there a need to know by the one you are talking to? A good general rule is talk less and listen more. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"Argue your case with your neighbor himself,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and do not reveal another's secret,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">lest he who hears your bring shame upon you,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and your ill repute have no end."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Proverbs 25:9-10</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-45619627814977004522024-02-16T06:00:00.007-06:002024-02-17T09:46:47.489-06:00THINGS WE DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It is really amazing how I can hear a word or a phrase in the most unsuspecting places and it gets the gears turning. Recently, on a series I am currently watching on Netflix, I heard this ~</span></p><p style="text-align: center;">"<span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b>Stuff we don't like to talk about"</b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">and it struck a chord and I immediately wrote it down to ponder after wasting another 30 minutes watching an episode of "Mindless Chatter". NO--not the name of what I am watching, but suffice it to say I cannot be productive every hour of every day. Mindless chatter helps me come down from the day and prepares me for a night of rest. Boredom is a sure tool to help sleep.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXchtgAhRoVJkgmbS5OClSUNUkw24IlGepW9aTuw-NGftOuQRhf9Sq3iCtTvnacExoHnPyI1_8gm1YCXsvO-MJKY48VDR1GvcYRW22HruYWSnuKUWAO4_2jTw0X4LWkSKBSatmKR2ngaW-k2mFkTxxtceGtYKi95JA1fNKjk_f9wtSRUA0MiXEbVaZqjx/s1451/download.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1451" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXchtgAhRoVJkgmbS5OClSUNUkw24IlGepW9aTuw-NGftOuQRhf9Sq3iCtTvnacExoHnPyI1_8gm1YCXsvO-MJKY48VDR1GvcYRW22HruYWSnuKUWAO4_2jTw0X4LWkSKBSatmKR2ngaW-k2mFkTxxtceGtYKi95JA1fNKjk_f9wtSRUA0MiXEbVaZqjx/w283-h400/download.webp" width="283" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Every time I looked at my note with "stuff we don't like to talk about", I came up with another thing to put on the list. My children do not like to talk about my death. With every day we all grow nearer to our final Good-bye. As we age it becomes more and more apparent we do not get out of this alive. BUT for various reasons, my demise is a taboo subject with my children. It is either taboo or brings about some quip concerning my ancient age. They seem to think I will live forever and do not want to discuss any alternative.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Politics is a BIG thing I do not want to talk about. I am really weary of all the fighting, name calling, threats, yelling, and smart remarks from all the politicians out there and those who have jumped on board the want to fight train. For the life of me, I do not understand why we cannot agree to disagree without trying to kill each other. SO---you may want to start a discussion about politics with me, but I will quickly and smoothly change the subject. I have my opinions, but will not be discussing them with you. Wars have been fought for far less.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Most of us do not want to talk about depression, anxiety, or any other form of psychological illness. Personally, I laugh and say I have earned all my crazies. It is no secret my family has a tendency toward depression and OCD. We do not mind speaking of our physical ailments, but for some reason we associate shame with any mental ailment. Perhaps we believe it is a sign of weakness. SO, the subject is taboo---stuff we don't like to talk about.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Three examples of the stuff we don't want to talk about, but why? I for one do not like to argue or any form of dissension. I will stuff a sock in my mouth before I will argue. In fact I am pretty certain I have shortened my tongue by all the biting of it. It is just a matter of trying to keep the peace. There is also the sense of shame we sometimes have that causes us to refrain from bringing certain subjects up. We keep secrets. we refuse to discuss, and we silently work on our first ulcer or heart attack. I am a firm believer in stuffing our feelings is not good for our health, and yet I can stuff it with the best of them.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Why am I unwilling to discuss certain things? The fear of loss of a relationship---loss of esteem---is probably at the top of that list. Today's world of heightened emotion concerning so many subjects has led to broken relationships---walking away from another after years of being side by side. We are saying if you can't agree with me--we cannot be friends. I am threatened by you not being on the same page I am. I refuse to agree to disagree. That is not what God intended, but the fallen world has embraced. Why can't we all just get along? Sadly, because we are all fallen.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"Stay away from foolish and stupid arguments,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">because you know they grow into quarrels."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">2 Timothy 2:23</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-32755981127229929462024-02-15T06:00:00.008-06:002024-02-15T06:00:00.248-06:00OUR SHRINKING WORLD<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I have a sweet friend who recently responded to my post on Love for Family via Facebook. For those of you who are not on Facebook here is her response ~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><i>"With the onset of COVID, it has been a season of loss for me, especially the last six months of 2023! At my age, 81, I guess it's the norm. To say I miss them all, is an understatement! Thankful for a loving, caring Lord Jesus who comforts those of us who are mourning. How fortunate I have been to have close and lasting friendships! So grateful for my church family of friends-Dubach and Ruston. I am so thankful for ALL my sweet friends, just floundering a bit."</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">I can literally feel her pain and grief as I record her response for you. As we age, our worlds begin to shrink. I clearly remember the sadness of my late father in law when he told me he had outlived all of his peers. We all want to live long productive lives and he did. BUT it comes with a cost as your world begins to shrink with the loss of mobility and more profoundly the loss of friends and family as they leave this world behind. NOW--we Believers know this is not the end for us---the best is yet to come, BUT we also grieve the loss of the physical presence of those we love when they pass on. I well remember the shock of realizing I was now the senior matriarch of the James family with the passing of Momma. Slowly but surely our family line begins to lose a generation and we are left at the helm as the senior generation. My brothers and I have a running joke about who will go first. It is all jibes and laughs until I actually think about that occurrence. I hope I go first---I do not want to face the alternative.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzcW86D7f6-aTBtLfdFKX0-dXaaOiv0zTvlDTbAqMTKCDYEojAHKIifx33a78RxADnSmDfdawdBb6oox5MU2lBKyVzl_P1Ur8Uy46AE6VplqfKgrBE51SICL26sqCsZubM6UD3xvNgwsFhM_HbBiIJwhbJUPMew2M0W1BeKHGqdwstRTSZAWXeymFCtc3/s612/istockphoto-1182642195-612x612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzcW86D7f6-aTBtLfdFKX0-dXaaOiv0zTvlDTbAqMTKCDYEojAHKIifx33a78RxADnSmDfdawdBb6oox5MU2lBKyVzl_P1Ur8Uy46AE6VplqfKgrBE51SICL26sqCsZubM6UD3xvNgwsFhM_HbBiIJwhbJUPMew2M0W1BeKHGqdwstRTSZAWXeymFCtc3/w400-h266/istockphoto-1182642195-612x612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">What do we do with the grief that comes with our shrinking world? How do we face tomorrow when we are left behind? Thinking this over I have come to the following conclusions ~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Thank God for giving us memories which can comfort us with waves of gentle reminiscing of those we loved so deeply.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Pause and reflect on what the ones gone before would expect from us who are left. They would want us to live to the fullest of our ability. They would want only the best for us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">As the reader's comments states, be thankful for God's gift of sweet friends and I will add family. What a lonely bleak world this would be without our loved ones. Remember the gift of their presence, and do not become mired in the grief. Instead celebrate the memory of them and all that entails and be grateful.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It is a given that the longer you live, the more your world will shrink. It is a fact of life. Perhaps with a shrinking world, we will have more time to concentrate on those who are still by our side. Those who are left have a responsibility to remember and remind themselves of the gift of the love of those who have gone on. As long as we remember--they are not forgotten.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQWvIVtf9pTTbI6jI8XvsostotCRHUtZYRX6mDk9aDw37N2Td6OF8urQL8iw6FuBYM02Bb5tNM-JAaWu_O9j3OWcG0iT7u3NYRLsm5dMzNEY83T6olHl3wHtxNXG_WWpLA-X1f_KrkIV6uMLUs10nADmY5WdUsj4aWbAxYNm99SJzmqDQq0bXrneYn2A0/s660/sympathy-stepping-stone-those-we-love-dont-go-away-914551.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="660" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQWvIVtf9pTTbI6jI8XvsostotCRHUtZYRX6mDk9aDw37N2Td6OF8urQL8iw6FuBYM02Bb5tNM-JAaWu_O9j3OWcG0iT7u3NYRLsm5dMzNEY83T6olHl3wHtxNXG_WWpLA-X1f_KrkIV6uMLUs10nADmY5WdUsj4aWbAxYNm99SJzmqDQq0bXrneYn2A0/w400-h400/sympathy-stepping-stone-those-we-love-dont-go-away-914551.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">"And I am certain that God,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">who began the good work within you,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">will continue His work </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">until it is finally finished</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">on the day when Christ Jesus returns."</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Open Sans";"><span style="color: red;">Philippians 1:6</span></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-66913087769022427272024-02-14T06:00:00.004-06:002024-02-14T06:00:00.149-06:00WORTH REPEATING<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">This post is for all my readers sitting out there today down and depressed because you have no "Valentine". Almost every year when writing on this holiday I have repeated a similar version of today's post. Remember, I am always talking to myself first and foremost when I write. This is an extension of my thoughts--a way to process what is rolling around in my head.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXd8p9wwAfRZxYMnRPqihuyG3OaaSTm_nNMeXpPWPABo-4aKgw7S8gbpIGNHhrAEvgSaldmtC3r3oBPeEYuzZHWFkdTQhpUqGZAsQTFXCQ80mqqUlo-sRRXigNQ2EL7cFBX9BIbUp5nI4USFXNSzYeoz_78Jq6SVbWeZlE-4Riw6ShF6ljKLFHWJ1x8lN/s600/depositphotos_243421478-stock-photo-cropped-view-female-hand-paper.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXd8p9wwAfRZxYMnRPqihuyG3OaaSTm_nNMeXpPWPABo-4aKgw7S8gbpIGNHhrAEvgSaldmtC3r3oBPeEYuzZHWFkdTQhpUqGZAsQTFXCQ80mqqUlo-sRRXigNQ2EL7cFBX9BIbUp5nI4USFXNSzYeoz_78Jq6SVbWeZlE-4Riw6ShF6ljKLFHWJ1x8lN/w400-h266/depositphotos_243421478-stock-photo-cropped-view-female-hand-paper.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">It is disappointing --discouraging when the entire world seems to be focused on their "love" today and you either do not have a love or the person in your life is not very thoughtful. WHAT is one to do? Spend the entire day moaning & groaning----sitting in a dark room in despair---- feeling left out/unworthy/unwanted OR is there an answer? My personal answer is to quit thinking about myself and instead focus on those I love. I always remember my grands on this special day. After all, don't we want our well loved grands to know how much we love them? I have had a fun time collecting their little "favorites" and coming up with a unique way to give it to them. Most of us would be so much better off if we could practice thinking of others and not dwell on yourself. Any time I am down in the dumps, an act of serving others always brightens my day. As I recently wrote, to quote the High Priest at my local church, "It's not about you." SO my advice--find someone who may be lonely and forgotten today. Call them, send them a card, take a flower by, or simply pay a visit. The world is filled with so many "Alone" people--surely you know one? Get out of your personal dread by showing the love to another.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">AND---NEVER FORGET---how much God loves you. Go to The Book---look up all the verses about how deeply He loves you. No one else could ever love you more. Take comfort and remember it is ONLY ONE DAY!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"that you, being rooted and grounded in love,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">may have strength to comprehend with all the saints</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">what is the breadth and length and height and depth,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">that you may be filed with all the fullness of God."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Ephesians 3:17-19</span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5416556583423635558.post-91639624632821034412024-02-13T06:00:00.003-06:002024-02-13T06:00:00.245-06:00QUERIDA FAMILIA<p> <span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Today's post is the next to last post on love. I really never intended to write an entire month's posts with the theme of love, and it will all end tomorrow with my Valentine's post. Lesson learned--do not make impulsive comments about posting on one theme for an entire month. What should flow naturally then becomes a mandate or promise and not what God has placed on my heart. I have not had any problem coming up with this two weeks of posts on love, but would rather allow things to come as I begin to mull them over. So for today -</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdnB1I2sRjls5HicoSzsrT_mPG0eacoFnbjQGMtHCT1Gxblid7I9__EAnLTJpqSLAbraRoPBJQHAzPNzHQVyPmep8Hu-ib3OFupx8uzCXNSVuVqfT-11n41nvaa2GDP_Qh13xMBYJUJMcVuMGxr2APjxFtlSt_jlL79OFJ49TQ-xflES17q01uBaD5C0x/s580/Beloved-Family-Fonts-65636471-1-580x387.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="580" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdnB1I2sRjls5HicoSzsrT_mPG0eacoFnbjQGMtHCT1Gxblid7I9__EAnLTJpqSLAbraRoPBJQHAzPNzHQVyPmep8Hu-ib3OFupx8uzCXNSVuVqfT-11n41nvaa2GDP_Qh13xMBYJUJMcVuMGxr2APjxFtlSt_jlL79OFJ49TQ-xflES17q01uBaD5C0x/w400-h268/Beloved-Family-Fonts-65636471-1-580x387.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">will be my topic. What better place to end the discussion of love. Tomorrow will concern Valentine's Day exclusively. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">HOW I love my family. They are the ones who love me knowing me best of all. I am not always so loveable--and yet they stick by me. They forgive me when it is difficult to forgive myself. They have seen me at my absolute worst--they know my sins--and they unfailingly love me ~ even when I do not deserve their love.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">These are the people I would give my life for. Need a kidney, need a lung, need a heart---I will sacrifice it all because I love them dearly. The steadfast - unfailing - deep- sacrificial love for them is a blessing. What is that song---they are the winds beneath my wings. They inspire me to love more and better. For them I would give my all--that is how much I love them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans;">Of course, this reminds me of the deep love of God for us. He loved us so much---He provided atonement so that we might always be in His presence. The lamb of that atonement was His own Son. He would sacrifice His own Son--who became the scapegoat for our sin---so that we might be with Him eternally. No greater love has any man. So we are His adopted child--the one who though not worthy-- His love provided. His love causes Him to faithfully provide all we need. He is our God--they one who loves his adopted child best. He is our Patriarch God who is the author of love. AMEN!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">"In love He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">according to the purpose of His will,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">to the praise of His glorious grace,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">with which He has blessed us in the Beloved."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;">Ephesians 1:5</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Open Sans;"><br /></span></p>luluhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11520683067915486215noreply@blogger.com2